Self-Control in the Bible: Bible Verses on Discipline
Have you ever wondered about the purpose of self-control in the Bible?
We’re constantly bombarded with messages telling us to “live your best life,” “do what makes you happy,” and “(YOLO) you only live once.” While these phrases sound fun and empowering, they often encourage us to indulge every whim and desire, sometimes at the expense of our long-term well-being.
The grace of God offers us a different way – giving us a true sense of purpose and joy. Today, we’ll look at some scriptures that answer the following questions:
- What is the meaning of self-control?
- What are some Bible verses on self-control?
- Who showed self-control in the Bible?
- How can I live with self-control?
Let’s see what God’s Word says about a life of good works and purpose, and discover how self-control can help us truly “live our best life” the way God intended.
What is Self-Control in the Bible?
When trying to define a word I like to look at the antonyms. Looking at words that describe the opposite gives us a different perspective. Here are some words that describe what it means to have a lack of self-control:
- Indulgence
- Unrestraint
- Failing
- Weakness
- Gratification
Now, let’s talk about how the Bible defines self-control. One of the best passages to turn to is Galatians; the fruit of the Spirit.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23 NASB
Self-control is listed as one of the fruits of the Spirit. These fruits are the characteristics and qualities produced by the inner workings of the in-dwelling Spirit.
The word for “self-control” in its original language means – the virtue of one who masters his desires and passions.
For a Christian, self-control means walking in the power of the Spirit, rather than the weakness of the flesh. It’s a character quality cultivated through a relationship with God and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
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Examples of Living Out Self-Control in the Bible (KJV)
From the Patriarchs to the Apostles the scriptures are packed with countless examples of men and women who showed self-control in the Bible. Let’s glimpse into a few of their lives and see what we can glean for our own.
Joseph Showed Self-Control in Potiphar’s House
We find the story of Joseph in the latter chapters of Genesis. In Genesis chapter 39 we learn Joseph was purchased by Potiphar, the captain of Pharoah’s guard. It didn’t take long for Potiphar to notice that the Lord was with Joseph, so he made him his attendant and manager of his household.
It also didn’t take long for Potiphar’s wife to notice Joseph’s appealing physique and handsome appearance. She relentlessly tried to have an affair with him. He refused.
However, there came a day when her lust became so strong that she attempted to pull him onto her. Joseph escaped her grasp and ran out of the house for good.
Sometimes, the best way to practice self-control is to, literally, run from temptation.
Just as Joseph refused to succumb to the advances of Potiphar’s wife, we too are called to recognize and avoid temptation in our own lives. His example of self-control teaches us that resisting temptation often involves proactive measures, such as avoiding places, people, or circumstances that could tempt us to compromise our beliefs and our commitment to righteousness.
Esther Showed Self-Control in Her Interactions with the King
Esther was a woman in the Old Testament who showed great wisdom and patience. There are multiple lessons of self-control woven into her story.
For our example today let’s take a look at the events of Esther Chapter 4.
Esther was a young Jewish girl living under the guardianship of her cousin, Mordecai. After a series of events, Esther becomes the Queen of Susa (Esther Chapter 2). Mordecai, after learning about an evil plot of Haman to annihilate the Jews from the region, goes to the city gate to deliver a message to Esther urging her to go to the King to beg for mercy on behalf of her people.
Great fear and dread were Esther’s initial response. She sent the following reply to her cousin.
“All the king’s servants, and the people of the king’s provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or women, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live: but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days. – Esther 4:11 KJV
Mordecai’s response reminded her that God had placed her in the current position for a purpose.
Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shalt escape in the king’s house, more than all the Jews. 14 For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father’s house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this? Esther 4:13-14 KJV
Esther had come to a fork in her path. One direction would lead to the annihilation of her people, but she could spare her own life…possibly. The other was to risk her life by revealing her identity and going before the King to plead for her people.
She chose to trust God and go before the King. God granted her favor before the King by granting her request to stop the evil plot to destroy her people.
Esther showed self-control by not allowing her fears to dictate her actions. What a great example of letting your faith be greater than your fear! When we face hard decisions we can remember Esther and choose to trust God rather than be overcome by fear.
Jesus Showed Self-Control in the Wilderness
Of course, we must include the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus. He is our greatest example in all things of godliness.
When we think of how Jesus showed self-control our minds may immediately go to the cross and the events leading up to it. That, of course, is the greatest example of self-control in the Bible.
However, I’d like to discuss a different event; Jesus in the wilderness.
In Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12-13, and Luke 4:1-13 we find the different accounts of Jesus’ temptation by Satan.
After being led by the Spirit into the wilderness Jesus spent 40 days fasting. Satan comes on the scene to tempt Him.
And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made bread. Luke 4:3 KJV
Not only did Satan entice Him to eat bread, but he did it in a way to question His identity as the Son of God. In this moment, Jesus exercises self-control by standing on the Word of God.
And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. Luke 4:4 KJV
This pattern of Satan’s temptation followed by Jesus’ proclamation of truth happens two more times in this wilderness encounter.
Jesus’ example teaches us the importance of knowing and believing God’s Word. God’s truth equips us with the discernment and self-control needed to resist temptation.
Let’s chat about self-control in the Bible
Pray for God to work in your life and heart as we discuss how to live with godly character, including self-control this week’s Morning Prayer Time.
Plus, I’m sharing what self-control is not and what I’ve let go of to be more self-controlled.
Empowering Bible Verses on Self-Control
Many other passages in the Bible encourage us to use self-control. Here are a few of them.
Psalm 16:8
I have set the Lord always before me, because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. NASB
This verse is a beautiful reminder of God’s constant presence in our lives. When we intentionally focus on Christ Jesus, keeping Him at the forefront of our minds, we find the strength to resist temptations and distractions.
Proverbs 25:28
Like a city that is broken into and without walls so is a person who has no self-control over his spirit. NASB
This imagery paints a picture of the importance of self-control in our lives. Think of self-control as the strong walls of a city, providing protection and structure. Without it, we become vulnerable to all sorts of negative influences and impulsive actions.
The good news is that we can strengthen these walls by staying connected to God through prayer and reading His Word.
1 Corinthians 10:13
No temptation has overtaken you except something common to mankind; and God is faithful, so He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it. NASB
As human beings, we encounter temptations on a daily basis. This verse is an encouraging reminder that God always provides a way of escape when we meet temptations. His Spirit provides the wisdom and guidance we need to flee tempting situations.
1 Peter 4:7-8
The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. 8 Above all, keep fervent in your love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins. NASB
This verse reminds us of the importance of focusing on eternal things. This kind of self-control helps us remain focused on God, keeping our hearts and minds clear of distractions. As we seek God through prayer we are better equipped to love Him and love others well.
2 Timothy 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline. NASB
This passage is a wonderful source of encouragement for us to embrace self-control. It reassures us that God’s Spirit leads us in strength and self-control, not fear.
When we feel overwhelmed or tempted to act out of frustration or impulsiveness, we can lean on the power of the Spirit. He equips us with the ability to exercise self-control and to respond with love in challenging situations.
2 Timothy 3:2-3
But realize this, that in the last days difficult times will come. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, slanderers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy, 3 unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, 4 treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God. NASB
This passage lists examples of those who choose to be lovers of the world rather than lovers of God. As His children, we must put off these works of the flesh and offer our whole body as a living sacrifice to our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Titus 2:11-12
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people, 12 instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously, and in a godly manner in the present age… NASB
What a great reminder of the transformative power of God’s grace in our lives. It’s not just about saving us; it’s also about guiding us to live in a way that reflects His love and holiness.
His grace equips us to deny worldly passions and sexual immorality and to live godly lives for the kingdom of God. Accepting God’s grace equips us to turn away from behaviors and desires that don’t align with His will. This grace teaches us to live with self-control and make choices that honor God.
1 Peter 1:13
Therefore, prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, set your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. NASB
This verse is a great reminder that much of our battle over self-control is fought in our minds. Instead of setting our thoughts on the concerns and worries of this life, we are called to fix our minds on the hope we have in Christ.
As we reflect on the hope we have; eternal life in a kingdom that will never spoil or fade, we are empowered to walk through the circumstances of this life with confidence, knowing all the trials and struggles are temporary.
Your Next Steps to Living With Self-Control in the Bible
We’ve discussed the what and the why of self-control in the Bible, now let’s talk about the how. Here are a few practical ways to start cultivating self-control in your own life.
Practice the Renewal of Your Mind
Romans Chapter 12 teaches us that the renewing of our minds transforms us. Our world constantly bombards us with ideas and ways of thinking that directly oppose God’s truth.
As we read God’s Word and meditate on the scriptures we realign our reasonings with heavenly realities. This renewing is a discipline we must walk in daily to maintain a sound mind.
Use this free Bible reading plan self-control in the Bible to renew your mind with biblical truth. May these verses and Christian journal prompts help you stay steadfast in God’s strength, no matter what you face.
Set Healthy Boundaries
As we saw in the example of Joseph, we must establish healthy boundaries. We must carefully avoid the practices and places that lead us toward temptation.
Sometimes we must also set boundaries with people, although we are, often too quick to do this. It’s easy to put a wall up in front of people we don’t like or don’t get along with. This happens in churches all the time.
It’s possible that the Lord would have used the conflict in that relationship to sharpen an area in ourselves.
Other times the boundary is necessary and appropriate. Placing boundaries with people requires lots of prayer and humility.
Seek Accountability
God never intended us to live the Christian life alone. We need the encouragement and accountability of the full body of Christ. If you struggle to practice self-control in an area, find a trusted Christian friend to talk to.
God honors humility. Confess your weakness and ask for prayer and accountability.
Limit Distractions
Our rat-race world will always have distractions. Each moment of every day our minds and hearts are pulled in multiple directions.
These distractions are dangerous because they diminish our ability to hear God’s voice and be present for the people and responsibility in our day-to-day lives.
We need more focus. The Holy Spirit can empower us to cultivate this kind of self-control.
Part of my morning quiet time with the Lord is to ask Him to help me stay focused on the right thing in each moment of that day.
Also, we must be willing to eliminate things and activities that provide constant distraction.
As we have seen, the Bible teaches us that true freedom and fulfillment are found not in indulging every desire, but in aligning our lives with the will of God through the power of the Spirit.
Remember, self-control isn’t about denying ourselves joy; it’s about choosing the kind of joy that lasts. Embracing what the Bible says about self-control opens the door to a deeper, more meaningful life.
Thanks to Megan from Megan Allen Ministries for this powerful truth on what it means to live with self-control in the Bible!
